Bonham, Texas -- Gary Donald Hale, a proud veteran of the Army (the same military branch his father, Rayburn Arvus Hale, Sr. served in), passed away on May 28, 2015 at age 67. He was a resident of Edgewater, FL.

Gary was born in 1948, in Bonham, TX, to Rayburn and Lela Hale. Gary served in Vietnam in the 128th Medical Detachment. He was a 1967 graduate of Bonham High School where he excelled in 4-H winning Grand Champion at the Texas State Fair for his sow. He attended and holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science (Registered Nurse) from Grayson County College (1974).

Gary’s pride and joy was his family. He was a loving father, brother, uncle and grandpa. He was very proud of his son, Hayden Hale, and his many accomplishments in the field of optical laser engineering. He was the type of father and grandpa who was always available to help with fixing things or provide advice. He was very dedicated to his grandchildren.

Gary was extremely close to his older brother, Rayburn Hale. They were inseparable growing up with only 15 months difference in their age. Their relationship continued to be strong throughout their adult years. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed cooking, riding motorcycles, swimming, sailing, hunting, and fishing with his siblings. Gary was a joy to be around and always an amazing host.

Gary had a career that spanned almost 40 years as a registered nurse working in hospitals and VA medical facilities. His areas of expertise included the emergency room and the cardiac catheterization lab.

Gary was survived by his wife, Mary Lou Hale (deceased now), sons: Hayden Hale and Jimmy Allen (deceased now), daughters: Nora Davenport (Mike) and Patty, grandsons: Josh, Jimmy Allen and Matt Allen, granddaughters: Cyndi, Shana, Miranda, Stephanie, Tasha, Tiffany, and Cassidy, brother: Rayburn Arvus Hale, Jr. (deceased now), three sisters: Dianna Ridge (Thomas), Kim Wisener (Doug) and Kathy Vaughn (Steve) and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rayburn Hale, Sr. and Lela.

A private service celebrating Gary’s life will be held by his family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to plant a tree in his memory.

Both Gary and his father are honored for their service in the Red River Valley Veterans Memorial Museum in Paris, TX. His life was marked by love - the joy of his children, grandchildren, siblings and extended family. We rejoice knowing he is experiencing peace and joy.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, visit www.coopersorrells.com